Saint Mary's College offers several degrees in math, including Computational Mathematics, general Mathematics, MIS, and Statistics & Actuarial Mathematics.
"It's empowering to be in a class with all women. In a women's environment, math is just interesting, and it's fun. You can analyze problems and look at problems from a different perspective." —Anna Fricano '08
Computational mathematics combines computer science and statistics with applied mathematics. The program will enable you to make predictions through modeling, analysis, algorithm development, and simulation.
Computational mathematics can be applied to a variety of subjects. In medicine and biology it can be used to predict the course of diseases, to study the brain by mapping neurons or sequence genes. Businesses and government utilize it for strategic planning and data mining. Even the entertainment industry uses computational mathematics for use in computer animation and digital imaging!
Writing in the Major
The purpose of the Advanced Writing Requirement in Mathematics is to develop mathematical writing skills in order to deepen your understanding of mathematics. You must also demonstrate your ability to communicate mathematical ideas to a range of audiences. Fulfillment of the advanced writing requirement in the major is required for graduation from Saint Mary's College.
Senior Comprehensive Examination
The college requirement for a Senior Comprehensive Examination is met by completing an extended independent study project on an unfamiliar topic. A faculty member will be there to supervise your progress and provide aid where needed. The project culminates in the public presentation of a written paper of the results of the study. Questioning by a faculty committee, including the faculty advisor and the seminar instructor will follow. The paper also serves as the final submission for the Advanced Writing portfolio.
Hands-on Learning
You have the opportunity to become a student worker as a microcomputer support specialist, or a laboratory assistant or supervisor. You'll have the opportunity to gain valuable experience, working with fellow students and faculty in different courses, languages, and on a variety of computer equipment.
We have more than 100 Macintosh and MS microcomputers for student use. These computers have network access to the central computer and to national networks. Students may connect to the Internet from the student labs listed above or from personal computers in the dorms.
You are also encouraged to find summer internships or apprentice positions in business or industry following your sophomore and junior years. Math majors that intern are usually paid a salary. The Mathematics Department and the Career Development Center maintain files of information on the availability of such opportunities.
Most recently students have interned with:
Careers
Recent alumnae are attending graduate schools such as Iowa State, Loyola, University of Chicago, and the University of Missouri-Columbia. Career opportunities exist in critical industries such as aerospace, engineering, electronics, biology, and medicine. Visit the Center for Career Opportunities website to explore many great career opportunities for Saint Mary’s graduates.
